Why Would I Help You?

Chapter 8: Flashback

Branch sighed, glancing at Poppy. She went over, and rubbed his arm in a comforting way.

He gave her a small smile in return. Then cleared his throat to explain.

"That day, I was so lost in song...I didn't hear my grandma trying to warn me."

Flashback

Branch trotted alongside his grandmother, humming his grandmother's favorite song.

"And I see your true colors, that's why I love you!" Branch sung aloud, picking up flowers on the way.

The princess was born just three days ago, King Peppy and Queen Honey decided today was the day to show the princess to the kingdom. So Branch and his grandmother went along to the ceremony where she would be presented.

"What are you doing, love?" Grandma Rosiepuff asked sweetly, giving her grandson a curious look.

"I'm grabbing flowers for the princess! Every princess deserves flowers." Branch giggled. "I heard that she was named after a flower so I'm trying to get all of them. I've only got poppies and daisies though."

Grandma Rosiepuff let out a little laugh, patting his head. They walked into the crowd.

Grandma Rosiepuff ran the only nursery amongst all the trolls, so she and her family were allowed to stand up front. Branch jumped to see the platform but was having technical difficulties. His grandmother lifted him up, propping the four year old on her hip.

"Hello cizitens of the Troll tree!" King Peppy's voice boomed over everyone else's, shushing them. "As you know, a baby princess has been born into the world! Let me introduce you to," he picked up a pink baby from the carriage next to him. Queen Honey sat exhausted in a chair nearby, "Princess Poppy!"

The baby opened her eyes slowly, and looked in Branch's direction. Their eyes connected, and Poppy smiled. Then King Peppy lifted her and changed directions so everyone could see the glorious baby.

Branch sat stiff as a board, staring at the beautiful baby. When they were in sight again, Poppy pointed to him.

"B-b-...b-b-b..." She mumbled.

Queen Honey looked at Branch with knowing eyes.

"Sweetie, that is Branch." Queen Honey said.

"Branch! He he he he he! Branch! Branch! Branch!" Poppy giggled, repeating Branch's name over and over. Branch's eyes widened that the first thing the baby ever said was his name.

Instantly everyone's eyes flickered to him, and Branch squirmed uncomfortably.

"Can you say, Daddy?" Queen Honey asked, still looking at Branch from the corner of her eye.

"Dada dada! Mama!" Poppy smiled.

"Let's party!" King Peppy said, and music began to play in the background by DJ Genevieve. (DJ Suki's mother)

The party continued, and Branch danced. The music buzzed on, loud and fun, but he felt different, something wasn't the same. His heart felt....fuzzy.

A hand tapped him on the shoulder gently, and Branch turned around. Queen Honey gave him a smile.

"Hello Branch, may I speak with you in private?" She asked.

Branch bowed, and Queen Honey laughed before gently lifting his chin.

"No need dear, what do you say?"